The 10th Sharjah International Travel & Tourism Forum (SITTF) that took place on November 22 at Expo Centre Sharjah offered insights into the challenges, opportunities and sustainability within the travel and tourism sector through a series of engaging discussions, presentations and interactive workshops.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of Sharjah Executive Council, SITTF aimed at leading the way in eco-conscious travel and tourism with an illustrious lineup of experts and a forward-looking agenda.

Held under the theme “Sustainable Tourism: The Way to Improvement”, SITTF was organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), the forum was a part of Sharjah's efforts in developing environmentally and socially responsible travel practices, its thriving eco and adventure tourism sector, as well as the emirate’s growing reputation as a global example of sustainable solutions. 

In the panel discussion ‘Sustainability Practices – Innovate for Impact, Collaborate for Change’, notable participants included Dr Nawal Al Hosany, Permanent Representative of UAE IRENA, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Green Development and Climate Change at the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment; and Ahmed Al Qaseer, CEO of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).

These experts shared their insights on sustainable tourism trends, government policies, economic benefits, the role of technology, and the significance of collaboration in achieving sustainable tourism goals.

The panel on ‘Strategies for Sustainable Travel and Tourism’ brought together industry leaders, including Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager of HMH Hotel Group; Koko Tang, GSTC Board Member, Founder of Colorful Earth Co-Founder of Vinetree Tourism; Paul Bridger, COO of Rove Hotel and moderated by Doug Lansky, Destination Advisor and Tourism Expert.

The panel explored eco-tourism, waste reduction, and the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable tourism, providing valuable perspectives on shaping the industry's future.

A day of knowledge exchange and upskilling

SITTF 2023 featured several expert-led presentations by Koko Tang, GSTC Board Member, Founder of Colorful Earth, Co-Founder of Vinetree Tourism; Doug Lansky, Destination Advisor and Tourism Expert; and Karim El Marmari, Marketing Manager of Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority.

The forum also offered two engaging workshops. “Destination Recharge” is an industry training programme aimed at promoting responsible tourism and social change. The programme saw the installation of car chargers at various destinations to encourage electric car usage.

“Journey Beyond Expectations” was designed for tour operators and guides, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to enhance guest experiences by designing innovative itineraries in Sharjah. These workshops provided a hands-on opportunity to explore and shape the future of sustainable tourism practices.

A Travel and Tourism Expo at SITTF 2023

On the sidelines of SITTF 2023, a Travel and Tourism Expo was held to showcase the latest initiatives, projects, practices and innovations in the travel and tourism sector in Sharjah, providing attendees with insights into cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and immersive travel experiences adopted by various government and private sector entities.

The exhibition also offered industry professionals a platform to network and explore the future of travel, adding a dynamic dimension to the forum. – TradeArabia News Service